Malibu?

Currently own a DA40 and just finishing IFR rating. Live in Toronto and the mission is a few trips to Calgary plus local trips to lake country. Wife is not a comfortable flyer. Loading is hard to predict but I have 4 kids so you never know how many seats you could fill. I have a few folks suggesting a Malibu but it seems a big step in a lot of ways. Phil I think you flew one. How does the performance fit my varied mission Nd what about it as a step up from a Diamond?

Answers

Malibu is a huge step in terms of maintenance cost/hassle. Performance
is great if you can also get a letter from God promising that the
engine won't quit. If you can live without pressurization, a Bonanza
will very likely provide a much more satisfying ownership experience.

Also the PA46 airframe has some very high insurance rates. According to the Piper dealer
newer ones average about $18K per year. Of course older ones would be less, but still far
above something like a Bo.

Interesting to suggest the Bonanza as I've been thinking a great deal about that
aircraft. I assume Phil you mean the normally aspirated given your opinion of
turbocharging? Also I was pondering half a Malibu so that would control the costs and
allow me possibly to keep the Diamond. Seems to come down to pressurization.